EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF INJURIES IN PATIENTS WITH HIGH DIAGNOSTIC SUSPICION OF ABUSE

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Forensic Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Child abuse remains a significant public health concern globally.
• Understanding the epidemiological profile and injury patterns is crucial for effective intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the epidemiological profile of child abuse cases.
• To identify characteristics of injuries associated with child abuse.
• To evaluate outcomes for child abuse victims.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cross-sectional study.
• Review of medical records of patients aged 18 years or younger suspected of abuse (January 2012 - December 2022).
• Analysis of demographic data, trauma mechanisms, injury types, and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• 58 cases were analyzed, with adolescents (50%) most affected.
• Physical force (36.21%) was the most common abuse mechanism.
• Fractures (41.38%), particularly skull/facial, and brain injuries (42.42%) were common.

Conclusions:

• Child abuse affects young children and adolescents, with physical force being a primary mechanism.
• Identified injury patterns necessitate enhanced screening and management protocols.
• Continuous training and vigilance are vital for prevention and intervention efforts.